Back to my Roots: Venice

Venezia

Truly a city of romance, Venice was incredible. The streets are lined with old buildings and getting lost in the tiny alleys that cross small canals is a must for any visitor. I would not recommend staying more than 2 days, as you might find yourself drowning in gelato or vino. It is beautiful to look at; the Grand Canal lines a very crowded dock filled with colorful restaurants and people, but this would not be a city that would offer much more than you could see in 48 hours. We stayed 2 days and I'm not sure what we would have done on day 3. San Marco Square (think beginning of Italian Job... Past the hotness of Mark Wahlberg) and the Basilica are the most beautiful places to visit and you really cant miss them unless you do find yourself lost in the maze of streets.

San Marco Square

Views from the Gondola

Things appear to be much further apart then they actually are. Once you begin walking, the square is much closer than you originally anticipated. Public transportation was easy to use from the airport (ACTV bus number 5) will take you right into a main square where you can then access public water boats that take you to a dock that would be close to your accommodation. The entire journey from baggage claim to hotel takes about an hour and will only cost you ten euro. Much cheaper than 100 euro for a private water taxi. I can tell you where not to stay in venice. We stayed at a "hotel," however I think that just because you have a hotel shampoo label, does not give you the right to call yourself a hotel. Hotel Iris was a hostel, and it was not ok. It was advertised as a gorgeous, newly renovated hotel just 200 meters from San Marco square, well yea if you swim. And newly renovated - that is an opinion. The service was horrible and incredibly over priced. I would definitely do some more investigating next time and I can tell you it will not include Hotel Iris, unless i am writing a nasty review on Trip Advisor.

The actual city of Venice is very much its own little subculture and has a wonderful welcoming feeling. Rialto (area near San Marco Square) is a great place to shop and small boutiques along with high end shopping can all be found in Venice. We took a helicopter ride over the islands for 45 euro a piece - only 6 mins but incredibly worth every cent. The view was incredible and the perspective of the city completely changes once you see it from over head. Gondola tours are a must here, but be willing to pay 100 euro -we went with 2 other people and it made the cost much easier to swallow. We saw the home of Mozart (which will be greatly appreciated by my Gramps)! This city is definitely romantic, so bring your significant other, but please refrain from the PDA that most of the teenagers engage in here in Italy... Ciao!

To view all of my photos from Venice, click HERE.

View from the helicopter!